Every day we have a choice. We can support an up and coming podcaster, try a new family-run restaurant, join a boutique gym started by a local fitness champ or we could keep giving away our money to the handful of giants who already control so much of our commerce. Our daily decisions impact the kind world we live in; if we want a world where small businesses are growing and artists and creatives are thriving then we should support them with our time, money and attention. We’re proud to highlight inspiring creatives and entrepreneurs each week in Hidden Gems series. Check out some of our latest local gem features below.
Queen Angel
I’m excited to connect again! For those who may not be familiar with my journey, I’m the founder of Queen Angel Shop, originally launched as a women’s fashion boutique specializing in clothing, shoes, and accessories. Over time, I felt a deeper calling to shift my focus toward hair care, recognizing the need for high-quality, nourishing products that cater to a variety of hair textures and needs. Read more>>
Amanda Scott
In tandem with that query, after taking a good 5 plus years to commit to deep inner healing and spiritual practice, I finally came to a place of feeling complete. Not that I’m done with “inner work” that’s just ridiculous, but I just feel like I don’t need to sit in so many ceremonies or keep searching for deeper meaning. I’m being lead instead to take all the immense work I have done on myself and really let it land in my body on a cellular level. It’s been a few months of training my body to do things it hasn’t done in decades and it has been as rewarding as it is challenging. Besides, I dare you to name a more fun way to embarrass you kids than by saying “look guys, mommy can do the splits on this Lyra!” Read more>>
Benedikt Sebastian
My training reflects that same hunger for exploration. I hold a prestigious Bachelor’s degree in Visual Communication, and I earned a Master’s in Creative Writing—both of which have sharpened my ability to craft compelling stories from the ground up. But my education didn’t stop there. I studied drama and performance across South Africa, from Johannesburg to Cape Town, refining my craft through some of the most rigorous programs available. I took that passion overseas, training in the UK before immersing myself in the industry here in Los Angeles. I’ve studied various acting techniques, honed my skills with some of the best coaches, and thrown myself into the world of improv—especially with UCB and other institutions that challenge the way I approach performance. Read more>>
Lorenzo Meynardi
The venues food is mostly bad but if you catch the good ones you discover a lot of great food Tour Bus tours are more comfortable for the transportation but showers are always a big deal Hotels tours are mostly the best Read more>>
Sienna Benton
They even have their own garden, and practice yoga regularly. Many of them are certified instructors, which makes my heart so happy, as I’m a certified sound bath practitioner. The magazine is definitely going to focus on medicine, research, and touch on important topics like A.I’s role in medicine, but will also give a nod to to the wellness practices at the college as well. It’s so great to have the opportunity to be close to doctors and students who are active in both studying medicine and alternative treatments. Read more>>
Jason Henry
Some highlights of my journey include the educational aspects of training, learning various training styles and modalities, and using cutting-edge performance equipment. I have also had the opportunity to collaborate with some of the best professionals in the industry. I genuinely love what I do, and it continually gets more interesting. I have entered many rooms I never thought possible without my passion for fitness. Read more>>
Kristen Nicole Mann
Utilizing social media has been transformative, as I’ve been able to support others in harnessing its power to elevate their businesses and amplify their voices. While the transition has come with challenges like adapting to new technologies and balancing personal vision with audience engagement, the rewards have been immense. The appreciation I receive from a broader audience inspires me to keep innovating. Looking ahead, I am excited about the potential for collaborative projects and interactive digital experiences that resonate deeply with viewers. Overall, this pivot has opened up a world of opportunities and connections, and I eagerly anticipate where this journey will take me next. Read more>>
Seth Harding
Theresa: Since our last interview. We are so happy to report we have expanded the decor side of our business. During the pandemic, events everywhere were shut down and we could no longer perform in public. We could easily have lost our company and had to pivot really quickly on our options. In the very early days of lockdown, we were part of a campaign called “One Million Bubbles” where we put large displays of Balloons in front of our residence to cheer up our neighborhood. This became really popular, and we realized this gave others hope and joy during an uncertain time. This revelation opened our eyes to really build our decor side of our business. Despite social distancing, we found that folks still wanted to celebrate. It made us think of alternatives to deliver custom and elaborate designs for outdoor festivities. Read more>>
Soni Mizrahi
When it was time to choose a career, I landed on architecture—a discipline that combined creativity, structure, and storytelling in its own way. My studies not only sharpened my eye for aesthetics but also instilled in me a deep understanding of design, space, and human experience. That foundation became invaluable when I pursued my MFA in Film and Media Productions. Read more>>
Avery Cordray
I started painting at Glassell Art School in Houston at around eight years old, and I immediately fell in love with the freedom art offered. My high school teacher, Sharon Wilcutts, taught me to paint without hesitation or overthinking, sparking a creative explosion in me. Color theory class at the University of Mississippi changed me. I went on to earn a BFA in studio art. After moving to Los Angeles, the city’s constant inspiration fueled my growth as an artist, and despite the challenges, I’m now living my dream of painting full-time. Read more>>
Kelsee Thomas
How my work looks may seem at odds with the community celebrates at first, but it speaks to the conversation that those who take part in a “darker” community, don’t have a stereotypical look. I “look” nothing like the content I speak on, but horror, thriller, and “weird” lit are genres that are as radical and diverse as possible. You don’t have to be brooding to be able or wanting to learn and reflect! Read more>>
Aleta Braxton
Aleta Braxton: Vocalist. Currently a chorister with LA Opera. Have been with the company since it’s inception in 1987. I also sing on film soundtracks that include “Avatar: Way of Water,” “Frozen,” “Wish,” “Nope,” and more. I am also on the voice faculty at The Los Angeles County High School for the Arts. Read more>>
Melissa Lebow
I love teaching dance fitness because there’s nothing better than watching people surprise themselves—realizing they’re stronger, more confident, and more powerful than they ever imagined. And the best part? We get to do it while having an absolute blast! My classes are all about high energy, good vibes, and a killer mix of music—from pop hits to reggaeton—so every session feels like a dance party. Read more>>
Gina Cohen
Anaplastologists get to create custom, hyper-realistic prostheses for the face and limbs. I started working in the field of Anaplastology in 2006 in the Maxillofacial technician training program at Columbia Presbyterian Hospital and the Bronx VA in New York. After completing the program in 2008, I joined a private practice, in Pasadena, CA. Prior to that, I earned a Bachelors of Arts degree at Florida State University and a Masters of Fine Arts degree in Sculpture at the New York Academy of Art. Read more>>
A’noelle Jackson
On February 1st, 2025, I officially launched my production company, The Fearless Actress Company. For so long, I’ve hidden behind helping other people make their dreams come true. Servant leadership is powerful but knowing when to step into your power is critical. For many years, my company existed on paper, but not in action or execution. I’ve produced an award-winning feature documentary, Bad Ass Women Doing Kick Ass Shit, highlighting the former Senator of Washington, Mona Das, and 8 other women of color running for office in the United States back in 2020. We secured a distribution deal in 2024 and the film is now available on Amazon Prime, Apple TV, YouTube TV, and more! Read more>>
Galen Womack
Hello! I’m Galen, founder of the clothing brand ‘Fuck It It’s Fashion’ (FIIF). Since our last conversation, when I was launching my brand while finishing my degree at FIT, so much has evolved. Combining my education, passion for sustainable fashion, and dedication to my craft I’ve been fortunate to build a thriving career in the fashion industry. Along the way, I’ve embraced roles as a stylist and costumer, collaborating with some of my favorite artists and working on TV shows and films that inspire me. Read more>>
Kat Vacharabul
At the same time, I’m still running my business, Hangry Belly, which has grown from a brick-and-mortar concept to a food truck. While the expansion has been exciting, the business side of things has become more challenging with rising costs and industry shifts. Balancing both worlds—teaching and operating a food business—has given me a deeper perspective on the evolving culinary landscape. Despite the challenges, my passion for food and mentoring others continues to drive me forward. Read more>>
Talmadge Spicer
On a personal level, life has been incredibly fulfilling. I got married to my amazing wife, Euprasia, and we welcomed our first daughter, Majesty. Becoming a father has been one of the most transformative and rewarding experiences of my life, teaching me patience, presence, and the importance of balance. We’re also eagerly anticipating the arrival of our second daughter this February, and our home is filled with excitement as we prepare for this next chapter. In November, we took another major step by moving into our new home, which has been a beautiful milestone for our growing family. Read more>>
Cyazon Cyazon
I recently released a song with Bassrush Records, a label under the event company Insomniac. They do the major concerts and festivals such as EDC in Las Vegas. I’m looking forward to my team pitching myself to them for show opportunities this year. I’m also releasing a 5-song EP at the end of March with a whole conceptualized story around the music, artwork, and social media release videos. The third single from the EP is set to be released February 14. This is a body of work that I’m really proud and excited to share with the world. I have a few unreleased songs my team is currently pitching to record labels so we are in the middle of planning those music releases as well. Read more>>
Duncan Burns
In raising my two children with my wife, I wanted to have healthy kids , so I tried to have fruits and vegetables available for them to snack on. One day I bought too many vegetables. As an experiment, I placed them on the kitchen table, cleaned and ready to eat under a dome-shaped glass dish. The kids ate some and then returned to snack on the entire amount over the next few days. I was impressed by the lasting freshness and continued to refill this container for the next FEW YEARS! Read more>>
Nycholas Hughes
Things are going great for me now I have quit my job Ralph’s and Dave and Busters. I started doing some of my acting and I have also started training in boxing because I soon to have a Career in Boxing I still train in Jiu Jitsu and Wrestling but I train more in Boxing I do hopes to get into modeling soon it’s in my deck of cards I am slowly but surely moving up in the achievements. Read more>>
Sylvester Manley
I’ve gotten married, now have two children and my buzz is growing one day at a time. I’ve done pieces for alot of special individuals. I’ve even also gotten back into my visual artistry too. Everyday is literally a grind! Nonstop, always praying, always working towards the next stage: but it’s all worth it. Read more>>
Genice Gonzales
My journey to building my business comes from hard work, endless research and a true will to succeed. As a young, single mom I was determined to follow my passion and set an example for my daughters so they would grow up knowing that they can make their dreams a reality with hard work. Read more>>
Gohar Abrahamyan
How many neurosurgical physician associate transitioned into aesthetic provider. I’m one of the top 100 aesthetic providers in the nation. I differ in my practice that I use evidence inspect science along with my experience and expertise. I am always for the best benefit of the patient and will not sell or sell any treatments which I believe is not in the patient’s best interest. I offer cutting edge and advanced treatment such as injectables, bio, fillers, laser treatments, and radiofrequency, micro needling along with weight loss and body conjuring. The journey to build a business has not been easy however, I will challenges and learning along the way. To success comes when you don’t give up and you keep pushing through and pushing boundaries. Read more>>
Priya Tahim
Today, i am proud to say that i am confident in my worth, and continue to grow with whatever life throws my way. As a therapist, i can’t stress enough how important self-reflection is, and how powerful being on the other side of the sofa can be. I want to humanize therapists and the therapeutic journey that is lifelong & important for all. Read more>>
Love Le
I am looking forward to alleviating the greatest catastrophe facing humanity, which is suffering from physical pain, Mental Stress, Chronic Pain, Sciatica Nerve Pain, Muscle Pain, Sleep Deprivation, Stress from Unhappy Relationships, Divorce, Drugs, Alcohol, and Obesity, besides having no job, no money, lacking food, and suffering from wars and poverty. Read more>>
Anita Kopacz
My novels explore themes of resilience, transformation, and liberation, often through the lens of African spirituality. “Shallow Waters” introduced Yemaya, the Yoruba Trisha of the sea, while my latest novel, “The Wind on Her Tongue”, tells the story of Oya, the Orisha of storms and transformation. Both books honor ancestral wisdom and bridge the gap between the past and present, inviting readers into worlds where ancient traditions and modern experiences converge. Read more>>
Mariah Woods
I’ve written a book of nonfiction short stories about my childhood called “How Did I End Up Here? How Do I Always End Up Here? A Black Girls Guide to Coming of Age?” available on Amazon in physical and e-book format. I’ve stared a Youtube Channel, sharing my opinions on everything from pop culture, to fashion, to music, and more. I’ve started performing standup comedy around LA, as well as continuing to pursue my acting career. Read more>>
Phil Donlon
I am an actor/producer. Currently recurring as Lt. Vale on NBC’s Chicago Fire. I independently produced the definitive wildfire documentary titled HOTSHOT. It is streaming on Amazon Prime, Apple TV, VUDU and google play. The director and I embedded with a hotshot crew for 6 years. This film was made without Hollywood, 100 percent self-financed and distributed. With no marketing budget we have become the #1 rated fire movie of all time on IMDB beating out even Ron Howard’s Backdraft! Read more>>
Iron Gulla
So my name is Iron, I was born in Italy and grew up in Spain. At 18 I moved to US and I was living in LA for the past almost 9 years. Then I moved to Mexico city for one year and now I’m living in Copenaghen. I played basketball my whole life ( that’s why I moved to the states) and when that phase was over, I started training people in the gym. I always made music but once I stopped playing basketball is when I started taking it seriously. Read more>>
Heliya Alam
I started out in video marketing as an intern at Warner Bros. and, six years later, had the incredible opportunity to lead-produce marketing campaigns for Disney shows such as Dancing With The Stars Season 31, The Kardashians Season 2, The Dropout, and Tehran Season 2 for Apple TV. While growing both as an individual and as a producer in the video marketing and advertising world, the filmmaker within me never wavered—because at the heart of everything I do is what has always driven me: The love of storytelling and being an independent filmmaker. Read more>>
Anna Thatsanaphonh
The journey has been filled with so many memorable moments—both the good and the challenging. There have been ups and downs, but every experience has been a chance to grow and refine what I do. I’m truly grateful for the opportunity to share my passion for curating Lao and Southeast Asian-inspired tasting menus with a modern twist, and I love connecting with so many amazing people through food. Read more>>
Nancy Irwin
She performed all over the country and abroad, entertaining the U.S Army bases all over South Korea in two tours. She also appeared on Comedy Central, and was a frequent performer and staff emcee at the Improv Comedy Club on Melrose. As a comic, she only worked about 30 minutes a day, was bored, and so took up volunteer work in the community. Nancy experienced an epiphany when she began volunteer work for Children of the Night, a shelter for sexually abused teens in Los Angeles. It changed her life, and prompted her to return to school at the age of 44 to pursue a doctorate in psychology and to specialize in the prevention and healing of child sexual abuse. She went on to write the nonfiction YOU-TURN: CHANGING DIRECTION IN MIDLIFE, to inspire others that it is never too late to reinvent. Read more>>
Anisa Butt
On the acting front, a show I did as a one woman peice in 2023, was developed into a full length play in 2024 called “Permission.” It’s the first time I’ve stepped into a producing role for stage and that’s been an incredible journey. The writer of the show- Hunia Chawla is incredibly talented and it’s been a very fruitful experience seeing this 20 minute show develop into a full length play and have the audience love it! We bring this back in June 2025 and I’m excited to be back on stage again for this. Read more>>
Avital Shuster
Today, I’m proud to lead a team of dedicated professionals who share a commitment to empowering children and families. From earning recognition as Parenting OC’s Best Pediatric Therapy Clinic to offering unique programs like our therapeutic soccer group for neurodivergent kids, we’ve grown beyond my initial vision. Every step of this journey has been fueled by the incredible families we work with and their stories of resilience and progress. Read more>>
Tiffany Leonardo
My 14 year career as an Operating Room Educator, gave me the optimal environment to validate the stress management tools from my wellness trainings. I’ve worked with various organizations providing their teams with regenerative and preventative practices to optimize wellbeing through practical implementation. With some of the most rewarding experiences including EarthJustice, Rare Beauty, University of Southern California Hospitals, Cedars Sinai Medical Centers, Video Amp and many more companies. Read more>>
Karl Rowley
I’ll get a tow vehicle once back in Quebec. I’m very excited and grateful. I’m about to start a new life, partly on the road, combining the best of all worlds: my East Coast roots, my West Coast paradise, my design work, my online store, and a new platform via CabinKarl.com where I’ll share my new adventures. The last few years have taught me so much, it feels like I was destined to this point. All of which brings me back to one of my favorite quotes from André De Shields when he won his first Tony Award at 73 in 2019: “The top of one mountain is the bottom of the next, so keep climbing!” I don’t know if the universe will grant me 20 months or 20 years, but I’m sure going to make the best out of it. Read more>>
Melissa Hibbert
My path to founding BFA wasn’t linear, which I believe gives me a valuable perspective in this industry. After a storied 14-year career in Corporate Marketing, I started beauty my career as a celebrity makeup artist & beauty expert, working with high profile individuals, along with celebrities in film and entertainment and on contracts with major production companies, which gave me intimate knowledge of not just products, but what consumers and professionals truly need. This hands-on experience proved invaluable as I transitioned into brand development and strategy. Read more>>
Adalina Aladro
What sets me apart is the way I merge my background in film production, editing, and animation with my artistic practice. I create works that invite viewers to interpret their own narratives through layered compositions, rich textures, and symbolic elements like dry flowers and waves. My journey has been fueled by curiosity and a love for exploration—living in different cities with my family gave me an appreciation for blending perspectives, which shows up in my work. Whether in art, events, or creative production, my goal has always been to craft meaningful experiences that resonate on a deeper level. Read more>>
Nicole Castro
Beyond being a creative producer, what truly sets me apart is my unwavering belief in the power of travel and cultural immersion. Since my last interview with Voyage LA in 2020, I’ve solo-traveled to 21 new countries and lived in several, which has not only influenced my personal life but has also been an immense source of inspiration in my professional work. My ability to connect with diverse cultures and apply that perspective creatively in my projects has been a defining aspect of my career. Read more>>
Heidi Johnson
We spend millions each year on self help books that are trying to fix the wrong things. On our death bed, what we weigh or what we are worth financially won’t matter. What kind of person we were will. Why don’t we want to make those changes for good? To become the best person we can be, the kindest, a helper who makes our world better. This book isn’t about becoming a saint but simply learning that when we take tiny steps towards helping others, we change for good. The result is that we also change our world in the most remarkable ways. Read more>>
Bonnie Von Duyke
I’ve had such an impactful, difficult, and incredible 2024. I’m back now to finish out my last semester, but I had to leave AFI for a year for my own health. My step mother died suddenly of heart failure, my brother overdosed, and I was cheated on by someone I deeply trusted. All of this happening at once combined with my history of PTSD, put my health in question. It was a very difficult time for me to live through. I found ways by having support from incredible friends and family members, especially my father. I took a lot of time to process, reflect, and integrate my experiences before jumping back into the incredible chaos of filmmaking. But I’m back in LA and very excited to see where life takes me. Read more>>
Tobin Shea
Being a 10 year old restaurant in a world where new restaurants open up every week, it’s important that we recognize our guests that have been joining us throughout the life of the restaurant, but also work hard to make the new guests customers for life. We must strive to show everyone what has made us successful and have the ability to still be relevant after 10 years of service and beyond. Read more>>
J. Martin Strangeweather
The eidetic afterlife hypothesis is the only scientific model of death that allows for the possibility of a seemingly eternal afterlife, which arises from a “perfect storm” of factors that occur during the dying brain process, such as the restriction of oxygen to the brain, the flooding of neurochemicals associated with memories and dreams and hallucinations, a massive surge of synaptic excitation (indicating a heightened state of mental activity), and the shutdown of various centers of the brain responsible for our sense of the passage of time. The eidetic afterlife hypothesis adds a relativistic twist to the age-old understanding of the hereafter: your experience of eternity is conjured in the moment just before you actually die, not afterward! Read more>>
Joy Mcelveen
Beyond acting, my nonprofit Joy Is Everywhere Inc. is about making joy a birthright, not a privilege. Since my last interview, we’ve expanded amazingly—forming partnerships with Dolce & Gabbana, the WNBA’s Los Angeles Sparks, the YMCA, and the Boys & Girls Club. These collaborations help us bring joy to kids and families through wellness programs, community events, and special experiences. We’ve also launched a kids’ podcast and YouTube show, Our Friend Joy, designed for ages 4-10, with the first season now streaming. Read more>>
Robert Cobb
The good: Attending and covering my first Super Bowl as media and press photographer on Radio Row, interviewing and photographing sports stars and celebrities such as fellow Heights High alum Travis Kelce, Pat McAfee, Donovan McNabb, RGIII, Myles Garrett, Denzel Ward, Michelle Beadle, Kay Adams, Annie Agar just to name a few. Read more>>
Raquel Veisaga
Being so great at what I did had me doing 40-70 hours a week, and spread internationally. Being taxed with the demand I started teaching in group to serve more. I didn’t serve in group because i wanted more money for the same hour, it was from the necessity to reach the demand. I have never up until today had the goal of drop one on one coaching, I know how essential it is for people’s growth. As my program and demand grew I saw I wouldn’t be able to deliver quality and attention so I trained what is currently 5-6 additional V-SAGA Coaches. They are very successful in executing coaching via our systems. Some of them have coached professionals in the psychology as I do and have shown mastery and proficiency to deliver what I have done since my beginnings of 2015. Read more>>
Natalie Duque
For those who didn’t catch our first conversation, I’m Natalie Duque, a Los Angeles-based musician-turned-motivational speaker and (soon-to-be) music therapist. Music has been woven into my life for as long as I can remember. Before I could even talk, I was singing—serenading my mom with Wilson Phillips songs from the backseat of her minivan on long car rides. Songwriting came later, in middle school, and from the moment I wrote my first song, it felt like home. Music became my way of processing emotions, making sense of the world, and navigating life’s ups and downs. Read more>>
Dr. Monica Blied
Absolutely! I’m Dr. Monica Blied—a clinical psychologist, entrepreneur, professor, and, most importantly, a wife and mother of three. I founded Faces of Health, a wellness center in Claremont, California, where I specialize in neuropsychological assessments for ADHD and Autism, particularly for twice-exceptional, AFAB, and gender-diverse individuals. My work also extends to supporting people managing chronic illnesses like lupus, fibromyalgia, EDS, and MS. Read more>>
Hershii Liqcour-jete
I had made up in my mind that this was the thing that was going to completely change my life, and I was kind of left in a bad place when nothing worked out like I wanted to or planned. I had to remind myself that this was ONE show and ONE competition of many that I will and have competed in over a lifetime. I’ve made it through worse and I failed at worse, and I have to keep going. I defiantly don’t want my children to look at my life and experience me quit anything. I want to inspire them as they get older that when the want something to work hard at it and go after it. Read more>>
Katherine O’day
I’ve been going after playing a role for many years now that I’ve been now keeping more under wraps (if you read old articles you might be able to find it there…. wink wink), and have through that process learned new skills such as drumming which is my fifth instrument that I started learning about 4 years ago now! I am also finding that I am auditioning for bigger and bigger things every single year, which is pretty incredible. I went from seeing movies in theatres that I pitched for, to seeing movies in big theatres I auditioned for, to now watching movies I auditioned for getting nominations at the Academy Awards. I know for a fact that I’m on the right track. Read more>>
Jeremy Camilloni
My journey here has been a mix of building lean digital businesses, testing out scalable models, and spotting gaps in industries where better tools could make a huge difference. AI is moving insanely fast, and one of the biggest challenges right now is just finding the right tool for the job without spending hours digging through scattered information. That’s where we come in. Read more>>
Griseida
I’ve performed at renowned music festivals and appeared on major Spanish TV networks such as Telemundo and Univision. My discography includes an album titled Merezco and 10 singles available on digital platforms. My musical repertoire spans a wide range of genres, including musical theater, mariachi, Spanish pop fused with reggaeton, bossa nova, blues, jazz, rock, salsa, and merengue. I am deeply passionate about Latin music and the creative magic that emerges from blending its diverse rhythms. Read more>>
Jolana Nika
I’m a health coach and personal trainer with over 15 years of experience, deeply passionate about transforming lives through fitness and wellness. After the challenge of launching my clothing brand, Lazy, I gained invaluable lessons that fuel my mission to educate and inspire. With a focus on exposing the hidden dangers of unhealthy food, especially in the U.S., I strive to help people make better choices for their health. Now, I’m building a larger community, launching online programs combining workouts and nutrition, and partnering with another health coach to create something truly global that can help people around the world.” Read more>>
Jose Aguila
“The 400 Blows,” was a special one. It set off my journey. Today, I photograph, direct, create graphics, and still try to write. I graduated from LMU with a degree in screenwriting, and every day I try to write. Even though, most days I fail, and that’s ok. As long as I’m alive I’ll keep trying. I think what sets me apart is I want to do the most I can every day. No matter what it is I’m doing that day, I want to accomplish it to it’s best potential. And I love to learn, to see something and instantly want to create something like it. Read more>>
Jourdan “chef Fresh” Felder
New levels always have new devils . Lately we have been more focus on catering . 2024 we did lots of huge parties (100+ guest) . A lot of investing as well . Better equipment has allowed us to have better presentations. The world is more open and accepting of big crowds and it showed with how much we were booked in 2024 . Of course these bigger crowds can always be a challenge for us but thats the beauty of planning . 5 Ps are very important to us . Proper planning prevents poor performance. With that in mind we always find a solution. Read more>>
Owen Ingram
Music has been a huge part of my life journey… initially dance music, having run Plastic Surgery Records, a “Cool Cuts” record store in Maidstone, Kent UK, which was a fun 10 years of my life… that lead to making a few records, starting a small record label with some friends which then lead to Toolroom Records which was another 10 years & which i still co own to this day… all in England… Read more>>
Myah Daniels
My history with acting ignited a passion for writing, directing, and producing. I’ve developed plays for festivals, produced sold-out performances, directed at my alma mater, and this year, I wrote and starred in my first short film. I’ve explored a lot of creative avenues and continue to seek new storytelling opportunities! Read more>>
Dillon Kivo
It’s been an incredible journey since our last conversation, and I’m grateful for the opportunity to share an update. Over the past several months, I’ve been focused on growing PersonalBranding.com and helping individuals and businesses elevate their presence in the media and expand their reach. It’s been amazing to see the impact we’ve been able to make by empowering others to tell their stories and build lasting personal brands. Read more>>
Destiny Grant
Two of my projects are currently making their film festival run. “Sins of a Father” and “Honest/Fluff” have both been selected to show at the Academy qualifying festival Pan African Film Festival this February. My love for art and film continues to grow as I explore every possible canvas that exists. My brand Dienasty Art is my current focus where I create lil pic charms, digital downloads, original art, prints, and glitter tattoos. And of course I’m still on set as much as I can be. Many more things to come in 2025! Read more>>
Atlys
But in all seriousness, we are grinding EVERY SINGLE day and things are always brewing. Some things fizzle out, some things fall short, and others surpass all expectations! As artists, it feels impossible to control our own destiny. It feels like success hinges on this unattainable combination of timing, the right connections, AND downright luck. We decided a long time ago, however, that all we can control and do is to continue to push ourselves forward and make our own milestones — no luck needed — just hard work, discipline, and a hint of shamelessness! Read more>>
Sonya Villegas Kelsen
We cannot wait to introduce them to our guests and wine club. We also take this time to re-imagine the new year. 2025 will hold a lot of opportunity for change and improvement. We are always looking for ways to improve the guest experience whether it be through events such as wine tasting and classes or introducing new menu items. We are also looking forward to hosting more private events. Our lounge is just lovely for showers and receptions so that will be a big focus for us. Read more>>
Arthur Romeo
Since the last time I interviewed with you good folks I’ve continued to do quite a bit of voice over landing some big roles such as Pelleguarde from Seven Deadly Sins and Eggman the villain of the Sonic series in the popular YouTube channel Deathmatch. I’ve been directing plays, I played a part in a movie called “Mid City Dreamers” that’s being released in 2025 I play a really cool character named Snow Blizzard. Read more>>
Steve Dealph
I’m a Leadership Coach and Organization Development Consultant located in Burbank, CA. My main areas of focus are in coaching executives and other leaders to help them be more effective in leading their organizations. I also support organizations in developing their strategy, enhancing their culture, and implement systems, policy and procedural changes the will help their organizations but can be challenging to put into place. Read more>>
Kevin J Debruin
In 2018, I left NASA and started my own Space Education & Consulting Company. Everything lives underneath the company DeBruin Enterprises, LLC. I am the founder of Space Class and Source Class (in-progress), host and consulting producer of the Big Shots segment on NBC’s Play It Forward highlighting the Harlem Globetrotters. creator and host of A Place Called Space on YouTube, expert space consultant for CuriosityStream, a Host on The King of Random (TKOR), a 2-time TEDx Speaker, spacecraft design course instructor, aerospace industry contract engineer, international space & science camp instructor, and author of books: To NASA & Beyond, To Dare Mighty Things, and STEM PROs. Read more>>
Alon Goldsmith
Thank you for having me back! I’m Alon Goldsmith, a Los Angeles-based photographer and storyteller originally from South Africa. My journey has been shaped by a restless curiosity and a love for uncovering the magic in everyday moments. I lived in Jerusalem in the late ’70s and early ’80s, studying English Literature at Hebrew University while running a record store with friends. After some time wandering through South Africa and Europe, I landed in Los Angeles in the mid-’80s. What started as a temporary stop turned into a permanent home—complete with a beautiful family, a fulfilling career, and a passion for photography that has become my life’s creative engine. Read more>>
Ashley Rose Ramirez
I was so set on becoming a photographer, tunnel visioned since college on this being my absolute and final outcome, that I ignored the fact that my storytelling within photographs never felt completely satisfying. I kept longing to tell the moments of the in between. Rejection after rejection of my still images from contest after contest, submission after submission, took a toll. That was when I decided on a whim to listen to my gut and venture into the world of motion. Read more>>
Ruby Gao
What sets me apart? Probably that I’m not afraid to blur the lines between disciplines. I bring creativity from the music world, the nurturing approach of Montessori, and the strategic thinking I’m honing in my MBA to everything I do. The highlight reel? Helping kids thrive in an environment where they feel seen and heard, blending music into the classroom to spark joy, and challenging myself to think bigger with my academic and professional pursuits. Read more>>
Grecia Salamon
It’s been an incredible journey since we last spoke, and so much has evolved, both personally and professionally. One of the biggest areas of growth has been Rous World Productions, my production company. Our mission is simple: to bring visions to life and help brands scale through high-quality media, strategic storytelling, and immersive experiences. We work with creators, businesses, and entrepreneurs who want to elevate their presence, whether through compelling commercials, impactful podcasts, or full-scale media campaigns. Read more>>
Carla Arce De Callejas
The Chilean Peasant, for a time, was my small business. I sold Chilean style empanadas, salsas y mas (and more) during the pandemic out of my one-bedroom apartment. Due to everything being closed, it was a way to not only keep myself afloat and working but it gave those who food ventured a chance to try my food. The food I wanted to make the way I wanted to make it. No other chefs to judge, interfere or give me their opinion on what will sell and what wont. I didn’t have to hear “empanadas don’t belong on the menu” , “empanadas are too ethnic for the area” (whatever that means). Read more>>
Alice Chang
Of course, this evolution hasn’t been without its challenges. Balancing ambition with mindfulness has required me to pause, reflect, and recalibrate my approach to life and work. But through this process, I’ve found clarity and renewed inspiration. I’m excited to develop initiatives that empower others, foster connection, and support conscious living—creating a ripple effect of growth and fulfillment. Read more>>
Armen Zabounian
I played the. game of leverage to launch myself into getting bigger records with more well-known artists. In the past 10 years I had the privilege of working with such artists as Tyga, Doechii, French Montana, Trippie Redd, NBA Youngboy and a lot more to list. Genres I work on include but are not limited to Rap, Pop, R&B, Country, J-Pop and K-Pop. None of this was easy as I had to live in my studio (no showers) in the beginning until I made some sort of income to live off of. Fast forward to 2025 and I’ve now just won a Grammy for working on Doechii’s album “Alligator Bites Never Heal” in the Best Rap Album category. Read more>>
Toni Jaramilla
My parents immigrated from the Philippines seeking better opportunities in America. My father worked as a farmworker in Northern California, enduring harsh conditions, low wages, and blatant discrimination. Being the first in my family to earn a law degree, I was inspired by my father’s experiences to become a workers’ rights attorney. As a student activist at UCLA, I developed a passion for fighting injustices. My career has been defined by advocating for the underdog and driving change. Read more>>
Annie Semenova
We believe that when children collaborate, create, and play together, they discover our shared humanity, breaking down barriers of difference and planting seeds of empathy, respect, and world peace. By providing a vibrant, inclusive online experience where young actors from around the world can learn, perform, and connect, we aim to nurture a generation of global citizens who recognize that our similarities far outweigh our differences. Read more>>
Alonzo Wright
Thanks for asking—it’s been an exciting and transformative time since our last conversation! The most significant milestone has been publishing my first book, The Writing’s on the Wall, now available on Amazon. It’s a profoundly personal project reflecting my journey of faith, creativity, and growth, and I’m thrilled to see how it resonates with readers. Hearing feedback from people who’ve connected with the book has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my life. Read more>>
